La Vega, Dominican Republic – President Luis Abinader officially inaugurated the Antonio Guzmán Bridge over the Camú River on Friday, restoring critical connectivity in La Vega after over two years of closure. The inauguration also marked the opening of bridges over the La Palma River in Constanza and the Verde River in the Río Verde Arriba municipal district. These projects were executed by the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) and included significant road improvements on Imbert Avenue and in the Los Quemados community of the Cutupú municipal district.
Local residents and travelers expressed excitement about the new infrastructure, which is expected to enhance mobility and foster economic development throughout the province. During the ceremony, MOPC Minister Eduardo Estrella announced that the government has invested more than RD$20 billion in La Vega, with the three bridges inaugurated on Friday costing a total of RD$521 million.
Estrella stated that ongoing projects involve the construction and expansion of 26 bridges across the province. This includes nine on the Duarte Highway and seven on the Jarabacoa road. Four of the nine bridges on the Duarte Highway have been completed, while work on the remaining structures is ongoing.
Among the bridges under construction is a new five-lane bridge on the Jarabacoa road, designed to improve traffic flow. The developments have financial backing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Estrella also highlighted progress on the Duarte Highway expansion, noting that one lane toward Santo Domingo is nearing completion, while work continues on the lane toward La Vega. Improvements are also planned for the Jarabacoa highway, with new contractors being introduced to expedite construction.
Governor Luisa Jiménez of La Vega thanked President Abinader for his administration’s focus on community concerns and the infrastructure needs of the province. She emphasized the positive impact of these projects on local development and community communication.
Mayor Amparo Altagracia Custodio Guerrero echoed similar sentiments, praising the bridge inaugurations and emphasizing their role in improving mobility and supporting economic activities within the province.
The Antonio Guzmán Bridge replaces an old structure that was closed in April 2024 due to deterioration. The new bridge, 64.70 meters long and eight meters wide, features two traffic lanes and sidewalks for pedestrians. Since its opening in August, it has significantly improved access for residents and businesses in the area.
In addition to the Guzmán Bridge, the newly constructed bridge over the La Palma River is 35 meters long and includes enhancements to facilitate agricultural transport. The Verde River bridge on the Manga Larga–El Quemado road also received comprehensive improvements aimed at enhancing road safety and accessibility.
The infrastructure developments are particularly important for La Vega, as the region relies heavily on trade, agriculture, tourism, and service sectors. The projects aim to simplify transportation for residents, enabling easier access to educational, health, and economic opportunities.
The inauguration event was attended by various local leaders, including the provincial senator, the bishop of La Vega, and community representatives.
